Paul van Ass Urges Indian Hockey Team to be Patient

Newly-appointed chief coach of the Indian men's hockey team Paul van Ass on Friday said the team is working on being more patient as the players tend to rush forward while attacking during crunch games.

Van Ass's wards are going through their paces at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here to prepare for the 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup to be held in Ipoh, Malaysia from April 5 to 12.

"The Indian team has a tendency to rush for attacks during the game at times but the boys are definitely in better control now," van Ass said in a release.

"The key is to have patience during the game as it helps in better control of the ball and the match," added van Ass, under whom the Netherlands claimed silver medals at the 2012 Olympics and 2014 World Cup.

The six-nation tournament in Malaysia will be the first assignment for the Dutchman, who takes over the reins of the eight-time Olympic champions from Australian Terry Walsh.

The 2014 Asian Games champions will take on reigning world champions Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Malaysia and Canada for the title.

"And the boys have increased their level of patience, which was evident during the Champions Trophy and I would like to work on their mark of tolerance and help increase it further."

While the team is in good shape and confident on the field during their practice sessions, chief coach van Ass is also trying to give the team a positive start on the tour.

"Tactically and technically there is always scope of improving throughout one's career and we are focussing to become stronger on all the key areas before starting our tour in Malaysia," the chief coach said.

"All round fitness of the team is good and the boys are showing excellent dedication, but yes we will definitely be working on specific fitness."